Derek's gaze drifted toward the tea canister beside the teapot. Brandon’s eyes widened, and he attempted to move, but his body refused to cooperate.

Derek calmly dumped the tea leaves all over Brandon, revealing something else inside.

A slow, dangerous smile spread across Derek’s face. "Looks like I guessed right."

Brandon summoned every ounce of strength to stand, trying to snatch the black glass vial from Derek's hand.

But his injuries made even breathing an ...